--- layout: chart title: State APR report ---

California 2025

General Information

Statewide AT Program (Information to be listed in national State AT Program Directory)

State AT Program Title:
Ability Tools
State AT Program Title:
State AT Program URL
http://www.abilitytools.org/
Mailing Address:
3900 Lennane Drive, Suite 100
City:
Sacramento
State:
CA
Zip Code:
95834
Program Email:
info@abilitytools.org
Phone:
916-390-2690
TTY:
800-900-0706 (TTY)

Lead Agency

Agency Name:
Department of Rehabilitation
Mailing Address:
721 Capitol Mall
City:
Sacramento
State:
CA
Zip Code:
95814
Program URL:
https://dor.ca.gov/Home/AssistiveTechnology

Implementing Entity

Name of Implementing Agency:
California Foundation for Independent Living Centers
Mailing Address:
3900 Lennane Drive, Suite 100
City
Sacramento
State:
CA
Zip Code:
95834
Program URL:
www.abilitytools.org

Program Director and Other Contacts

Program Director for State AT Program (last, first):
Crowley, Kathrine
Title:
Deputy Director
Phone:
(661) 703-6292
E-mail:
kathrine@cfilc.org
Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):
Harris, Sarah
Title:
ILATS Chief
Phone:
(559) 444-2402
E-mail:
Sarah.Harris@dor.ca.gov
Primary Contact at Implementing Agency (last, first) - If applicable:
Crowley, Kathrine
Title:
Deputy Director
Phone:
(661) 703-6292
E-mail:
kathrine@cfilc.org

Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director

Name (last, first):
Harris, Sarah
Title:
ILATS Chief
Phone:
(559) 444-2402
E-mail:
Sarah.Harris@dor.ca.gov

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):
Rutledge, Kim
Title:
Director of CA Dept. of Rehabilitation
Phone:
(916) 558-5483
E-mail:
Kim.Rutledge@dor.ca.gov

State Financing

Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include any State Financing? Yes
Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include conducting a Financial Loan Program? Yes

Loan Applications
Area of Residence Total
Metro
RUCC 1-3 		Non-Metro
RUCC 4-9
Approved Loan made 00 00 00
Approved Not made 00 00 00
Rejected 00 00 00
Total 00 00 00

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

Lowest/Highest Incomes
Lowest Income: $0 Highest Income: $0

Average Income
Sum of Incomes Loans Made Average Annual Income
$0 00 $0

Number and Percentage of Loans Made to Applicants by Income Range
Income Ranges Total
$15,000
or Less		 $15,001-
$30,000		 $30,001-
$45,000		 $45,001-
$60,000		 $60,001-
$75,000		 $75,001
or More
Number of Loans 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
Percentage of Loans 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 100%

3. Loan Type

Loan Type
Type of Loan Number of Loans Percentage of loans
Revolving Loans 00 0%
Partnership Loans
Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee 00 0%
With interest buy-down only 00 0%
With loan guarantee only 00 0%
With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee 00 0%
Total 00 100%

Loan Type Summary
Type of Loan Number of Loans Dollar Value of Loans
Revolving Loans 00 $0
Partnership Loans 00 $0
Total 00 $0

4. Interest Rates

Interest Rates
Lowest 0%
Highest 0%

Interest Rate Summary
Sum of Interest Rates Number of Loans Made Average Interest Rate
00 00 0%

Number of Loans Made by Interest Rate
Interest Rate Number of loans
0.0% to 2.0% 00
2.1% to 4.0% 00
4.1% to 6.0% 00
6.1% to 8.0% 00
8.1% - 10.0% 00
10.1%-12.0% 00
12.1%-14.0% 00
14.1% + 00
Total 00

5. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed

Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed
Type of AT Number of Devices Financed Dollar Value of Loans
Vision 00 $0
Hearing 00 $0
Speech communication 00 $0
Learning, cognition, and developmental 00 $0
Mobility, seating and positioning 00 $0
Daily living 00 $0
Environmental adaptations 00 $0
Vehicle modification and transportation 00 $0
Computers and related 00 $0
Recreation, sports, and leisure 00 $0
Total 00 $0

6. Defaults

Defaults
Number Loans in default 00
Net loss for loans in default $0

B. State Financing Activities that provide consumers with resources and services that result in the acquisition of AT devices and services

1. Overview of Activities Performed

How many other state financing activities that provide consumers with access to funds for the purchase of AT devices and services were included in your approved state plan? 2
Activity 1
How would you describe this state financing activity?Telecommunications equipment distribution

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)600
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)54
C. Total Served654

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures654

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded		Value of
AT Provided
Vision 0$0
Hearing 0$0
Speech communication1308$529,913
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning0$0
Daily living 0$0
Environmental adaptations0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 0$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total1308$529,913

Activity 2
How would you describe this state financing activity?Telecommunications equipment distribution

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of ResidenceIndividuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)392
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)31
C. Total Served423

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures423

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / ServiceNumber of Devices
Funded		Value of
AT Provided
Vision 7$2,022
Hearing 0$0
Speech communication960$361,723
Learning, cognition, and developmental 0$0
Mobility, seating and positioning0$0
Daily living 0$0
Environmental adaptations0$0
Vehicle modification and transportation 0$0
Computers and related 0$0
Recreation, sports, and leisure0$0
Total967$363,745



C. State Financing Activities that Allow Consumers to Obtain AT at Reduced Cost

1. Overview of Activities Performed

How many state financing activities that allow consumers to obtain AT at a reduced cost were included in your approved state plan? 0

D. Anecdote

This consumer is an 8-year-old boy diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. His conditions limited his ability to verbally communicate and express emotions, often leading to frustration and social isolation. His family sought an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device to help him communicate and connect with others more effectively. Disability Resource Center (DRC) staff provided him with a tablet equipped with seven different speech generating applications tailored for communication support. The AAC device allowed him to express his needs and interact with others using visual symbols and text-to-speech output. The device also supported his learning and social engagement by giving him a consistent, reliable communication tool. The young boy’s reaction was heartwarming—his eyes lit up as he typed his first words and heard them spoken aloud. He was filled with excitement and pride as he began to express himself using the device. His family was equally thrilled, expressing deep gratitude to DRC and the Ability Tools program for helping him find his voice and confidence.

Impact Area

This anecdote was shared by a Voice Options consumer, a 24-year-old woman: “I have Down Syndrome and a developmental disability, and for most of my life, communicating was very hard for me. I didn’t have an AAC device when I was younger, so I had to rely on pointing and simple gestures to tell people what I needed. Many times, my family and friends didn’t understand me, and that made me feel frustrated and alone. My parents couldn’t afford to buy a device, and even though we tried for over a year to get one through my insurance, it didn’t work out. They connected me with a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) , but I still didn’t have a way to communicate. Then my SLP told us about the Disabled Resources Center and the Voice Options Program. That’s when everything changed. Through the Voice Options Program, I finally got my own AAC device. Now, I can express my feelings, needs, and wants clearly. My family understands me better, and we feel closer than ever. My friends talk to me more, and I can join conversations instead of feeling left out. Having a voice has given me confidence and independence. For the first time, people really hear me. I feel happy because I can tell them what I think and how I feel. Thanks to this program, I feel heard, understood, included, and that means everything to me.”

A young woman sitting and smiling, holding her speech device showing the speech application up happily
Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 07 00 413 420
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 01 00 02 03
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 00 00
4. Subtotal 08 00 415 423
5. None of the above 00 00 00 00
6. Subtotal 08 00 415 423
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 654 654
8. Total 08 00 1,069 1,077
9. Performance on this measure 100% NaN% 38.82%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 95 8.82%
Satisfied 129 11.98%
Satisfied somewhat 00 0%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 853 79.2%
Total Surveyed 1,077
Response rate % 20.8%

G. Notes:

654 acquisition activities were un entered in NATADS day to day. As a result, the bulk numbers were entered manually into the APR. Performance measures were entered, but satisfaction measures had not been collected. This is why there was a significant increase in "Nonrespondent" ratings.

Reutilization

A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices

Activity Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity
A. Device Exchange 02
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan 2,163
C. Total 2,165

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure because AT is provided to or on behalf of an entity that has an obligation to provide the AT such as schools under IDEA or VR agencies/clients. 00
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures 2,165

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance

B. Device Exchange Activities

Device Exchange
Type of AT Device Number of Devices Exchanged Total Estimated Current Purchase Price Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Exchanged Savings to Consumers
Vision 00 $0 $0 $0
Hearing 00 $0 $0 $0
Speech Communication 00 $0 $0 $0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 00 $0 $0 $0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 01 $150 $0 $150
Daily Living 01 $40 $0 $40
Environmental Adaptations 00 $0 $0 $0
Vehicle Modification & Transportation 00 $0 $0 $0
Computers and Related 00 $0 $0 $0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 00 $0 $0 $0
Total 02 $190 $0 $190

C. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassignment and/or Open Ended Loan Activities

Device Reassign/Repair/Refurbish and/or OEL
Type of AT Device Number of Devices Reassigned/Refurbished and Repaired Total Estimated Current Purchase Price Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Sold Savings to Consumers
Vision 16 $6,749 $0 $6,749
Hearing 00 $0 $0 $0
Speech Communication 49 $32,655 $0 $32,655
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 06 $2,813 $0 $2,813
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 1,998 $388,358 $0 $388,358
Daily Living 1,001 $2,046,595 $0 $2,046,595
Environmental Adaptations 262 $12,660 $0 $12,660
Vehicle Modification & Transportation 01 $5,000 $0 $5,000
Computers and Related 07 $1,757 $0 $1,757
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 04 $36 $0 $36
Total 3,344 $2,496,623 $0 $2,496,623

D. Anecdote

This consumer, an adult woman, needed an electric wheelchair to walk her emotional support animal and move around her apartment complex. She could not afford a suitable device through her insurance in a timely manner. She needed a reliable mobility solution to maintain her independence in the community. The AT Coordinator and Pearls Coach collaborated to provide a refurbished electric wheelchair from the Resources for Independent Living’s (RIL) reuse program. They used the Keep the Wheels Rolling Fund (KWRF) grant to refurbish the chair and replace the battery. The wheelchair was delivered to the consumer so she could start using it immediately. She was highly satisfied with the wheelchair and the support received from RIL. She expressed her gratitude for being able to exercise her emotional support animal and navigate her apartment complex independently. She was delighted to regain her mobility and engage more actively in community living.

Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 06 05 1,707 1,718
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 00 01 194 195
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 02 02
4. Subtotal 06 06 1,903 1,915
5. None of the above 00 00 144 144
6. Subtotal 06 06 2,047 2,059
7. Nonrespondent 00 00 106 106
8. Total 06 06 2,153 2,165
9. Performance on this measure 100% 100% 88.39%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 1,561 72.1%
Satisfied 601 27.76%
Satisfied somewhat 02 0.09%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 01 0.05%
Total Surveyed 2,165
Response rate % 99.95%

G. Notes:

Device Loan

A. Short-Term Device Loans by Type of Purpose

Loans By Purpose
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan Number
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) 1,855
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding 13
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation 12
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity 07
Total 1,887

B. Short-Term Device Loan by Type of Borrower

LOANS BY TYPE OF BORROWER
Type of Individual or Entity Number of Device Borrowers
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Individuals with Disabilities 1,525 22 1,547
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 60 02 62
Representative of Education 148 04 152
Representative of Employment 07 00 07
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 95 03 98
Representatives of Community Living 04 00 04
Representatives of Technology 16 01 17
Total 1,855 32 1,887

C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans

Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days 30

D. Types of Devices Loaned

Types of Devices Loaned
Type of AT Device Number of Devices
Desicion-making All other Purposes Total
Vision 76 04 80
Hearing 18 01 19
Speech Communication 1,118 06 1,124
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 49 02 51
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 90 07 97
Daily Living 153 04 157
Environmental Adaptations 62 08 70
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 02 00 02
Computers and Related 460 06 466
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 85 01 86
Total 2,113 39 2,152

E. Anecdote

This consumer, a bright and social woman with Cerebral Palsy, depends on her speech-generating device to communicate. She accesses her device using a single switch positioned near her right wrist, but her current switch stopped functioning. Without it, she was unable to use her communication device, leaving her temporarily without her primary means of interaction. Staff from the Center for Advanced Research and Technology (CART) evaluated her equipment and determined the switch was no longer operational. Fortunately, a replacement switch from Freedom Switch was available through the Ability Tools lending library. CART’s rehabilitation engineer installed and positioned the loaner switch so this consumer could immediately resume communicating while awaiting her new device through insurance. She was extremely happy to regain her ability to communicate independently. She expressed her gratitude for the prompt support from CART and the Ability Tools program, noting how much it meant to have a backup while waiting for her replacement. The consumer left the appointment smiling and relieved, knowing she could continue to express herself freely and without interruption.

Adult woman sitting in a power wheelchair using a Freedom Switch, red-framed speech-generating device mounted in front of them, displaying a colorful communication grid with icons and letters.
Impact Area

F. Access Performance Measures

Access Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 229 22 1,456 1,707
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 09 01 05 15
Subtotal 238 23 1,461 1,722
Have not made a decision 10 00 31 41
Subtotal 248 23 1,492 1,763
Nonrespondent 06 00 86 92
Total 254 23 1,578 1,855
Performance on this measure 95.97% 100% 97.92%

G. Acquisition Performance Measures

Acquisition Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 08 00 08 16
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 01 00 02 03
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 00 00
4. Subtotal 09 00 10 19
5. None of the above 02 00 03 05
6. Subtotal 11 00 13 24
7. Nonrespondent 01 00 07 08
8. Total 12 00 20 32
9. Performance on this measure 81.82% NaN% 76.92%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 876 46.42%
Satisfied 229 12.14%
Satisfied somewhat 05 0.26%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 777 41.18%
Total Surveyed 1,887
Response rate % 58.82%

I. Notes:

521 Device Loan activities were un entered in NATADS day to day. As a result, the bulk numbers were entered manually into the APR. Performance measures were entered, but satisfaction measures had not been collected. This is why there was a significant increase in "Nonrespondent" ratings.

Device Demonstration

A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type

Type of AT Device / Service Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services
Vision 46
Hearing 08
Speech Communication 969
Learning, Cognition and Developmental 18
Mobility, Seating and Positioning 53
Daily Living 50
Environmental Adaptations 22
Vehicle Modification and Transportation 01
Computers and Related 152
Recreation, Sports and Leisure 21
Total # of Device Demonstrations 1,340

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant Decision-Makers Other Participants Total
Individuals with Disabilities 1,270 17 1,287
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives 22 130 152
Representatives of Education 19 00 19
Representatives of Employment 02 01 03
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 22 21 43
Representative of Community Living 01 02 03
Representative of Technology 04 01 05
Total 1,340 172 1,512

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program) 61
Service Provider 17
Vendor 137
Repair Service 00
Others 01
Total 216

D. Anecdote

This consumer is an adult woman who experienced an unexpected fall, leaving her unable to bear weight on her lower body. The hospital provided her with a wheelchair, but it was too bulky and difficult to maneuver in her small home. She needed another mobility option that was lighter and easier to use. Assistive Technology Exchange Center (ATEC) staff provided demonstrations of both a quad cane and a folding walker. After trying both devices, the consumer decided to borrow them during her 12-week recovery. She was provided with both demonstration and loan services to meet her mobility needs. The consumer was relieved and grateful for the quick support. She found the walker and cane easy to use and especially helpful for regaining independence. She noted that the walker helped her transition more comfortably back to walking.

Person standing indoors using a silver walker with wheels and a black quad cane nearby on a tiled floor with an orange geometric rug.
Impact Area

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 78 13 1,132 1,223
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 00 00 05 05
Subtotal 78 13 1,137 1,228
Have not made a decision 08 04 83 95
Subtotal 86 17 1,220 1,323
Nonrespondent 03 01 13 17
Total 89 18 1,233 1,340
Performance on this measure 87.64% 72.22% 92.21%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services Number of Customers Percent
Highly satisfied 498 32.94%
Satisfied 295 19.51%
Satisfied somewhat 06 0.4%
Not at all satisfied 00 0%
Nonrespondent 713 47.16%
Total 1,512
Response rate % 52.84%

G. Notes:

526 Demonstration activities were un entered in NATADS day to day. As a result, the bulk numbers were entered manually into the APR. Performance measures were entered, but satisfaction measures had not been collected. This is why there was a significant increase in "Nonrespondent" ratings.

Overall Performance Measures

Overall Acquisition Performance Measure

Acquisition Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. 21 05 2,128 2,154
2. AT was only available through the AT program. 02 01 198 201
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. 00 00 02 02
4. Subtotal 23 06 2,328 2,357
5. None of the above 02 00 147 149
6. Subtotal 25 06 2,475 2,506
7. Nonrespondent 01 00 767 768
8. Total 26 06 3,242 3,274
9. Performance on this measure 92% 100% 71.9% 72.11%
ACL Performance Measure 85%
Met/Not Met Not Met

Overall Access Performance Measure

Access Performance Measures
Response Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed Total
Education Employment Community Living
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs 307 35 2,588 2,930
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs 09 01 10 20
Subtotal 316 36 2,598 2,950
Have not made a decision 18 04 114 136
Subtotal 334 40 2,712 3,086
Nonrespondent 09 01 99 109
Total 343 41 2,811 3,195
Performance on this measure 93.77% 87.8% 95.34% 95.07%
ACL Performance Measure 90%
Met/Not Met Met

Overall Satisfaction Rating

Customer Rating of Services Percent ACL Target Met/Not Met
Highly satisfied and satisfied 99.70% 95% Met
Response Rate 64.70% 90% Not Met

Educational/Training Activities

A. Educational/Training Activity Participants: Number and Types of Participants; Geographical Distribution

Educational/Training Activities by Participant Type
Type of Participant Number
Individuals with Disabilities 18
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 41
Representatives of Education 42
Representatives of Employment 46
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 27
Representatives of Community Living 114
Representatives of Technology 137
Unable to Categorize 49
TOTAL 474

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro Non Metro Unknown TOTAL
413 54 07 474

B. Educational/Training Activity Topics

Educational/Training Activities by Topic
Primary Topic of Educational/Training Activities Participants
AT Products/Services 314
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice 00
Combination of any/all of the above 16
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access 37
Transition 107
Total 474

C. Description of Educational/Training Activities

Describe innovative one high-impact assistance educational/training activity conducted during the reporting period:

On November 7th, 2024, Ability Tools hosted a webinar featuring the latest installment in our ongoing series “LATest & GreATest” featuring: Braze Mobility and Wheeleez. Participants were encouraged to join our team in learning, directly from the vendors, about Braze Mobility’s blind spot sensors for wheelchairs and Wheeleez’s all-terrain wheelchair conversion kits. Participants were able to learn how these cutting-edge solutions elevate accessibility whether navigating the sand or everyday obstacles!

Briefly describe one educational/training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:

On November 14th, 2024, Amora Stahl, an Ability Tools Program Coordinator, provided training for the state of California’s AT Advocates on AT and Healthcare/Rehabilitation services. These trainings are crucial, as they work within the hub and spokes model, ensuring those most ingrained in and providing support to their communities are receiving the training needed to maximize their reach and skill in supporting community needs. The training covered various aspects of healthcare, rehabilitation services, and assistive technologies associated with transition/diversion from healthcare settings to independent living settings such as mobility aids, cognitive aids, and funding options such as Medicaid (MediCal), Medicare, and State Programs. AT Assessment techniques were discussed as well as DME and what may or may not be covered depending on an individual’s healthcare provider.

Briefly describe one educational/training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:

CFILC’s Ability Tools Program and Epic MyChart hosted an educational event on February 25th, 2025, at 11:00 AM PST. The event was titled "From Coverage to Connection: A Guide to Epic MyChart Telehealth Services." Participants learned how to confidently navigate telehealth, explore accessibility features, and gain practical tips for using Epic MyChart services effectively. Many major healthcare providers, including Kaiser, One Community Health, Hills Physicians, Planned Parenthood, Sutter, UC Davis Health, and Cedars-Sinai, use Epic MyChart to connect patients with their health information and virtual care. The ubiquity of this app in healthcare settings makes it crucial that patients learn to use the digital accessibility features of this app, enabling patients to independently navigate their health journeys, which is crucial to their well-being.

D. IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activity Performance Measure

IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activity Performance Measure
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activities Received Number
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies 13
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented 11
No known outcome at this time 10
Nonrespondent 03
Total 37
Performance Measure Percentage 64.9%
ACL Target Percentage 70%
Met/Not Met Not Met

E. Notes:

The IT/Telecommunications Educational/Training Activities Performance Measure fell just shy of the ACL Target Percentage. This is because we collect performance measures upon registration, in order to ensure a 100% response rate. We frame the question in a way that asks individuals to identify why they are attending. We have found that this approach results in more instances of folks who have not yet determined how this educational event will serve them, but it ultimately results in more robust data, as we have a 100% response rate of honest answers, rather than a considerably smaller response rate that provides less data.

Technical Assistance

A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance

Technical Assistance by Recipient Type
Education 20%
Employment 20%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation 20%
Community Living 20%
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) 20%
Total 100%

B. Description of Technical Assistance

Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:

In October 2024, DOR publicly stated that they would be restructuring the State AT program. As a result of this decision, Ability Tools provided Technical Assistance to provide support in the restructuring. Ability Tools provided data on how the program has historically operated and how other AT programs have historically and currently operated across the nation. CFILC was able to provide data on activity definitions, activity deliverable implementation and outcomes, along with current challenges and successes of the existing AT program model.

Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:

The Ability Tools team invited Guided Hands, a hand mobility assistive device, to present for our LATest and GreAtest series and introduce the vendor to our network. Ability Tools was attempting to support DLDCs with low loan numbers and provided ongoing 1:1s to help individual centers increase their engagement. In response to this need, the DLDC Ability Tools Program Coordinator provided a Community Partnership Training to DLDCs on how to collaborate with community partners and increase engagement with DLDCs. SVILC, one of the now retired DLDCs, subsequently reached out to community-based organizations and demonstrated Guided Hands for a clinic. This clinic was responsible for a substantial increase to SVILC’s secondary loans, with 72 loans in total just from the two Guided Hands devices in inventory. Additionally, the investment in Guided Hands devices ultimately resulted in SVILC developing a partnership with Marin Ventures, a community engagement day program for adults with disabil

C. Notes:

Public Awareness

Public Awareness Activities

Public Awareness Narratives

Describe in detail at least one and no more than two innovative or high-impact public awareness activities conducted during this reporting period. Highlight the content/focus of the awareness information shared, the mechanism used to disseminate or communicate the awareness information, the numbers and/or types of individuals reached, and positive outcomes resulting from the activity. If quantative numbers are available regarding the reach of the activity, please provide those: however, quantative data is not required.

1. Ability Tools tabled at the first Abilities Expo of the year, which took place at the Los Angeles Convention Center in Southern California. The Los Angeles Abilities Expo is the largest AT Event in the state of California, and the organizers always provide the showcase booth to us for no charge. This is always our team’s largest event, drawing thousands of attendees over the course of the three-day event. Ability Tools created an exciting spy-themed experience, fully immersing visitors of all ages and providing missions for the attendees to complete, helping develop knowledge and skills while giving folks the opportunity to earn prizes. People were given a mission sheet to collect stickers, would get a unique sticker and prize for every completed mission and a prize bag with small AT devices for completing the entire mission briefing. Our team engaged attendees with mission briefings on the latest advancements in assistive technology (AT), including Smart Home Solutions, Technology for Aging Adults, AT for Employment and Education, and the Calm Command Center. We also included a live demonstration on how to create a Corsi-Rosenthal air filter using a box fan and air filters and were joined by the Disability Disaster Access and Resources team, who showcased a table on emergency prep resources and recovery tools. 2025 Participant Total - 9686 Fri-2915, Sat-4437, Sun-2334

2. Ability Tools Staff proudly tabled at our member center, DRAIL’s, 2nd Annual Disability Awareness Day, connecting with more than 500 participants throughout the event. Our team hosted an accessible 8-foot table display featuring a curated selection of assistive technology focused on Daily Living, Learning & Cognition, and Emergency Preparedness. Throughout the day, we engaged with attendees of all ages, demonstrating practical tools that support independence, safety, and everyday accessibility. Hands-on demonstrations sparked meaningful conversations about how assistive technology can remove barriers and enhance quality of life.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients AT Device/
Service		 AT Funding Total
Individuals with Disabilities 487 01 488
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives 348 00 348
Representative of Education 01 00 01
Representative of Employment 06 00 06
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation 06 00 06
Representative of Community Living 01 00 01
Representative of Technology 00 00 00
Unable to Categorize 02 00 02
Total 851 01 852

Referral Types:

The primary referral source for Ability Tools is 211, a free service connecting individuals to local community services, with whom Ability Tools communicates regularly to ensure our contact and service information remains up to date. Following 211, the second most common referrals results from online research, via our website or social media. Through CFILC’s partnerships with energy providers to implement our Disability Disaster Access and Resources Program that supports people needing backup batteries to support their AT during a power outage, emergency preparedness program funders, like Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) and Southern California Edison (SCE) provide frequent referrals from their call centers. Ability Tools regularly supports and collaborates with Independent Living Centers (ILC), Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC), and Regional Centers to create comprehensive support for those in need of AT. Consumers will frequently contact the Ability Tools line for low-cost internet information, for whom our I&A Specialist usually provides the Lifeline application link for the up to $10 discount and the link to the low-cost internet plan offered by their provider. Ability Tools maintains statewide resources, such as a county-by-county mobility resource guide and reuse resource listings, while working closely with the listed organizations, this information sharing fortifies relationships and increases potential exchange of referrals. Ability Tools, and the AT Network it facilitates, perform outreach at events across the state, statewide educational events, educational blogs and newsletters which leads directly to increases in Information and Assistance activities, in particular in relation to higher in-person activities, which results in higher instances of reconnection. In accordance with California’s refueling laws, which stipulate that an individual with a disability is entitled to assistance in refueling their vehicle, there are signs posted throughout the state which provide the Ability Tools I&A number as a resource to report instances where individuals were not provided with the support which they are entitled to. Many of the resources created can help people nationwide, including organizations and services that support individuals across the country. We have blogs with helpful information for people looking for life or job resources, especially for those moving to California. Our I&A line receives calls from individuals wishing to relocate to California, and our I&A Staff provide details on their local DOR office and Independent Living Center to help them get settled and access the support and services they need.

Referral Sources:

The referrals received from Other Program Area Entity/Provider (like 211) account for roughly 40% of all referrals, their reach is statewide, and Ability Tools stays in regular communication with them to ensure they receive any updates and can make appropriate referrals. About 20% of referrals come from Self-Referral by website, social media or other online outreach. 15% of our referrals typically come from a friend, family member or other individual who has connected with us via outreach events or who has received services from us before. Around 10% of our referrals come from Health and Insurance Care Entities/Providers who distribute Ability Tools materials at their locations, to support AT acquisition for their patients. 5% of calls come from Other Disability & Advocacy Entities, consisting of individual organizations that provide local resources to people with disabilities in their area, who are partner organizations who know us to be a reliable resource for their consumers. About 5% were related to the Disability Disaster Access and Resources (DDAR), CFILC’s emergency response program that provides backup batteries to support electricity dependent AT and GO Bags to program participants. These referrals came directly from funder call centers upon performing customer intake, and by word of mouth from previous program participants. And finally, approx. 5% of referrals are related to Gas Station signs posted across the state to remain in compliance with California’s refueling laws, which stipulate the terms by which an individual with a disability is empowered to retain assistance when refueling their vehicle.

Notes:

Coordination/Collaboration and State Improvement Outcomes

Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities

Yes
Yes
The Ability Tools parent organization, California Foundation for Independent Living Centers (CFILC), partners with the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) for their youth advocates program, YO Disabled and Proud. Ability Tools frequently partners with YO to cobrand trainings and to collaborate at outreach events. This is a great partnership, as many youths are in need of AT services, but are not always aware of the services they qualify for.
Ability tools and YO partnered to provide trainings like “Your Future, Your Tools: AT for the Road Ahead” about transitioning from k-12 to higher education and employment and “Self-Advocacy & The Art of the Persistent Complaint,” about how self-advocacy, collective advocacy, and systemic change intersect, and how AT can support each level. YO regularly contributes to AT blogs and newsletters, and there are trainings, not only planned for the next FFY, but baked into the AT contract requirements. These trainings will aim to address the AT access cliff students meet when graduating from K-12, and address how to obtain access to AT in post-secondary educational environments and as new employees in a workplace.

3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?

Education, Employment, Community Participation and Integration, Recreation/Leisure, Transition (school to work or congregate care to community), Information and Communication Technology/Remote Connectivity,

4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?

Training, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness,
Yes
Yes
Ability Tools and Vocational Rehabilitation (DOR) collaborate regularly. DOR is the lead entity for the AT Act in California, and as a result, Ability Tools meets with DOR for regular monthly meetings and to collaborate on trainings and events directed toward the network and public. DOR staff serve as presenters for an annual training to the network of AT Advocates, where they educate the statewide network on the services and local offices that advocates can utilize to support their communities. Ability Tools staff regularly refers consumers to DOR for Vocational and educational services. The work done through this collaboration this year was funded through AT Act funding, AB 204 funding, ARPA funding, and California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) funding.
The DOR and Ability Tools partnership has deepened and strengthened through strong collaboration and communication over the course of this past year. This partnership has continually demonstrated a desire, intention and follow-through to be innovative in how new technologies are embraced and services are delivered. This year, the AT grant transitioned to a contract and was put out for RFP. This process was challenging for both parties who had to simultaneously work completely independent of one another, in order to uphold the integrity of the RFP process, yet also understand the needs of the community enough to work to design a program that will meet the needs of a community wholly changed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This was the first AT Program solicitation since that global event, and it was necessary that the program redesign reflected the massive changes in communication and access that have occurred in such a short period of time.

3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?

Education, Employment, Community Participation and Integration, Transition (school to work or congregate care to community), Information and Communication Technology/Remote Connectivity,

4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?

Device Loan, Demo, State Financing, Training, Information & Assistance, Public Awareness, Technical Assistance,
Yes
Yes
Ability Tools is a program of CFILC, which is the membership association for California’s Independent Living Centers. As a result of that fact, Ability Tools has a long history of collaborating with C4A, the AAAs membership association. This partnership is further codified by the ADRC partnerships that exist across the state between AAAs and ILCs. The results of those established relations is that we frequently partner as advocates regarding the state budget, providing training to one another on each other’s services, and collaborating on best practices. Additionally, our partnership in advocacy directly impacts ADRC funding, directly enabling ILCs to better serve their communities through their services, one of which specifically being AT.
The partnership between Ability Tools and C4A is crucial to ensure more complete access to AT across the community because many older adults do not identify as having a disability and frequently will retreat from disability-based AT services as soon as they must identify as possessing a disability. A stigma and sensitivity exist around aging into disability, which results in interactions requiring modified language divorced from disability. Since C4A is the trusted community resource for the aging community, they already possess the lexicon which immediately connects with their community members. This is an invaluable tool for bridging that identity gap and ensuring all Californians who need AT services are able to access them.

3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?

Housing/Home Automation, Community Participation and Integration, Recreation/Leisure, Health, Aging, Transition (school to work or congregate care to community), Aging and Disability Network/No Wrong Door, Veterans, Information and Communication Technology/Remote Connectivity,

4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?

Device Loan, Demo, Reuse, Training, Information & Assistance,
Yes
No
The State Medicaid Agency has been reached out to to participate as a member of our Assistive Technology Advisory Committee without success as of this FFY. Outreach and correspondence efforts will remain ongoing to establish partnership.
Additional Coordination/Collaboration activities 0

Overview of State Improvement Activities

State improvement outcomes are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR state improvement outcomes for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting? 00

Additional And Leveraged Funds

Did you have Additional and Leveraged Funding to Report? Yes

A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities

Fund Source Amount Use of Funds Data Reported
Public/State Agency$263,000DemonstrationFalse
Private$99,936DemonstrationFalse
Public/State Agency$152,500Device LoanTrue
Public/State Agency$148,500DemonstrationTrue
Private$393,181DemonstrationFalse
Private$247,280ReuseTrue
Private$164,911ReuseTrue
Private$131,928DemonstrationFalse
Private$95,068DemonstrationFalse
Private$393,181ReuseTrue
Private$376,929DemonstrationFalse
Private$230,875TrainingFalse
Private$376,929Public Awareness, I&AFalse
Federal$8,173Public Awareness, I&ATrue
Public/State Agency$529,913State FinancingFalse
Private$659,626TrainingFalse
Private$99,936ReuseTrue
Private$247,280DemonstrationFalse
Public/State Agency$123,852DemonstrationFalse
Public/State Agency$272,073State FinancingTrue
Public/State Agency$74,998TrainingTrue
Public/State Agency$74,998Public Awareness, I&ATrue
Private$471,161ReuseTrue
Public/State Agency$260,500Device LoanFalse
Public/State Agency$123,852ReuseTrue
Private$131,928Public Awareness, I&AFalse
Federal$8,173TrainingTrue
Private$329,707TrainingFalse
Private$133,247TrainingFalse
Private$95,068ReuseTrue
Amount: $6,718,703

For any leveraged funding reported above for which data could not be reported, please describe the extenuating circumstances that precluded data from being reported and efforts to remediate the situation in future reporting periods.

Public/State Agency Demonstration activities ($123,852.31), Private Demonstration activities ($1,344,322.20), Private Public Awareness, I&A activities ($508,857.46), and Private Training activities ($1,353,454.58) were not entered into NATADS as these activities were not reportable activities for the subcontractors doing this work. Deliverables will be updated in the coming contract year.

C. Describe any unique issues with your data in this section (e.g., the reason why you were unable to report the number of individuals served with additional or leveraged funds).

During FFY 2024, a staff member had extended medical leave, which cause us to not expend the funds completely.